Most people can benefit from custom foot orthotics, but whether you NEED them can be discussed with your doctor. A foot & ankle specialist will examine your feet and evaluate your biomechanics and foot function. Your foot structure, weight, activity level, medical conditions, and foot deformities/ areas of pain (bunion, hammertoe, callus, pinched nerve, heel spur, etc.) all play a role in determining your need for custom orthotics.
What options do I have?
1. Over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics might be a solution for some. Well-made brands can offer support and cushioning, but they're "one-size-fits-all" and won't provide personalized correction. While less expensive, they will need to be replaced more often. Ask your doctor if they're an option for you, and if so, what style they recommend.
2. Custom foot orthotics are recommended when your feet need extra help to function properly. Conditions like flat feet or high arches are common examples. Without support, your muscles, tendons and ligaments work harder to absorb the shock of your body weight. Over time, lax ligaments and instability contribute to conditions like arthritis.
If you experience foot pain, discomfort, or fatigue, it's time to schedule an appointment with a foot & ankle specialist. Custom orthotics may be the solution you've been looking for.
Heel pain can significantly impact daily activities and mobility, making it essential to identify the cause and seek appropriate treatment.
Heel pain presents as a symptom of many conditions, and it's crucial to identify the underlying cause before starting any treatment.
Common causes of heel pain:
When to seek treatment
If you experience persistent or severe heel pain, or discomfort that is affecting your daily life and ability to stay active, it's time to see a foot & ankle specialist. A thorough evaluation, physical exam, imaging (e.g. x-rays, MRI), and medical history review will be performed. Based on your diagnosis, treatment recommendations can be tailored to your specific condition and needs.
Failure to identify the cause of your pain can exacerbate the problem and/or delay proper medical care, ultimately leading to a longer road to recovery.
How to prevent Osteoporosis & its progression:
By adopting a proactive lifestyle that includes exercise and healthy habits, you can optimize bone health and reduce risk of osteoporosis-related complications.
Excess moisture in shoes can hinder performance, cause discomfort, and increase risk of blisters and fungal/ bacterial infections of the skin and nails. Here are some expert recommendations on how to keep your foot-sweat under control:
If you have specific concerns or conditions, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
Flat feet can be inherited or develop over time with age, sports injuries, certain medical conditions, ligament/tendon damage or degeneration, increased weight, pregnancy, or from compensation due to inadequate support.
Flatfeet are seen in both children and adults and may be asymptomatic or symptomatic. For asymptomatic cases (especially in children), it's important to keep prevention in mind:
1. Eat healthy and stay hydrated to keep your cells functioning properly and help your body repair damage
2. Keep your muscles strong by exercising regularly, paying particular attention to ankle strengthening exercises
3. Wear supportive shoes when you're active
Flatfoot deformity can be progressive and may become symptomatic over time. Common complaints include achy, tired feet, or foot cramping after long periods of standing. Bunions, hammertoes, and arch collapse may also contribute, adding to the "flat" appearance of the feet.
If you have symptomatic flatfeet, the first step is to determine the cause. A proper evaluation with x-rays can answer questions and help direct a treatment plan. Every flatfoot is different! Treatment should be personalized and depend on your specific diagnosis.
For example, if the cause is:
- Tight muscles causing stress, destabilizing joints in the foot, a proper exercise program with an orthotic may be needed.
- Tendon degeneration, advanced imaging (MRI) may be needed to evaluate the extent of damaged tissue and assessing need for repair.
- Coalition of two bones, short-term immobilization in a boot or bracing may be recommended before jumping to surgery.
- Abnormal joint motion leading to arch collapse and instability, custom orthotics may be best for motion control and support.
-Chronic bone malalignment with abnormal joint wear and cartilage loss, bracing or surgery may become options.
Flatfeet aren't as simple as they seem. Your diagnosis might be more complex than a neighbor or even a family member! Custom orthotics are often the best non-surgical solution to help control abnormal motion in your feet, alleviating painful symptoms associated with flatfeet.
Prevention IS the best medicine! Schedule a consultation with us to help prevent worsening of symptoms.